Are you a new grandparent eagerly anticipating the arrival of your precious grandchild? We have compiled a list of the best baby gear for your house! Having the right essentials on hand can make all the difference in ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable experience for you and your grandchild. There is no need to rack your brain trying to remember what you will need. We’ve got you covered!
Portable Crib or Pack ‘n Play
A portable crib or Pack’ n Play is a great alternative to a full-size crib when setting up a safe and comfortable sleeping environment for your grandbaby at your house. Their compact size makes them easy to set up and move around as needed, allowing you to create a cozy sleeping space wherever you are in the house.
Portable cribs and Pack ‘n Plays often come with extra features such as bassinets, changing pads, and storage pockets, making them a good place for babies to sleep while providing other things you’ll want.
High Chair or Booster Seat
Trying to decide between a high chair and a booster seat? A booster seat may be the better choice for grandparents with limited space. These seats can easily be attached to a regular dining chair, saving precious space in the kitchen or dining room. They are also more portable, making it easy to take them on the go when visiting friends or eating.
On the other hand, a high chair provides a dedicated spot for your grandchild to eat and play. They often come with trays and are more sturdy and secure than booster seats. Portable high chairs that fold up when unnecessary are also available. This can be particularly important for younger babies who may not have the best sitting balance yet.
Baby Monitor
A baby monitor lets you keep an eye and ear on the little one while they nap or play in another room. With technological advancements, many baby monitors are available, with features like video monitoring, two-way audio, temperature control, and white noise. Some baby monitors even sync up to your smartphone, providing real-time updates on your grandchild’s activities.
Baby Gate
A baby gate is an essential piece of baby gear that every grandparent’s house should have. It provides an added layer of safety to prevent curious little ones from accessing dangerous areas like stairs or rooms with potential hazards. With various options available on the market, from pressure-mounted gates to hardware-mounted ones, grandparents can easily find a baby gate that suits their needs and home layout.
More Baby Gear for Grandparents to Have
If you want even more gear at grandpa and grandma’s house, here are some things you may also want to buy (or rent, but more about that later).
Stroller or Baby Carrier
When deciding on a stroller or baby carrier, there are a few factors to consider. To start, think about the baby’s age and weight. A stroller may be more convenient for longer walks or outings, while a baby carrier can offer more flexibility and closeness for bonding. Consider the storage and portability of each option as well. If space is limited or the grandparents plan on traveling with the baby, a lightweight and compact stroller or a versatile baby carrier may be the better choice.
Extra Car Seat
Having an extra infant car seat for grandma and grandpa is essential for keeping your grandchild safe while on the go. This way, you can easily transport your little one without constantly switching car seats between vehicles. If you want a car seat that will last for a while, consider purchasing a convertible car seat that your grandchild can grow into. Also, don’t forget to grab a car seat base!
Baby Bouncer
Having a baby bouncer at the grandparent’s house can be a lifesaver in keeping your little one entertained and safe. It provides a safe place for them to sit and play while you take care of other tasks. The gentle rocking motion can also help soothe a fussy baby or lull them to sleep. With easy setup and storage, a baby bouncer is a convenient addition to any grandparent’s home.
Toys and Books
Having key items at the grandparents’ house helps to keep the little ones entertained. Toys, such as stuffed animals, blocks, and interactive toys, are a great option to have on hand. Infant play mats are great for laying on their backs or getting some tummy time in. Age-appropriate books (e.g., board books) are also wonderful, as reading to the baby can help stimulate their mind and create a special bonding experience.
Safety Baby Items
When it comes to safety baby items, there are a few key pieces that every grandparent should have on hand. These include plug socket covers to prevent electrical accidents, corner guards to protect sharp edges, and drawer locks to keep curious hands out of harmful items. These small yet crucial items are easy to install and make a big difference in creating a safe environment for your grandchild to explore and play in.
Humidifiers and Sound Machines
Adding a humidifier and sound machine to the grandparents’ home can significantly enhance your baby’s comfort. A humidifier helps maintain optimal humidity levels, preventing dry skin and easing breathing issues. A sound machine creates a consistent, soothing background noise, helping your little one fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. Both of these devices are excellent for ensuring a restful environment for your baby, making visits to grandparents even more enjoyable.
Extra Diapers, Wipes, and Baby Clothes
You can’t go wrong with having a stash of extra diapers and wipes at the house. Everyone knows how quickly little ones go through these essentials! In addition, a change of clothes (if not a few changes) is important in case of unexpected accidents or spills. Having these essentials readily available can make visits with the grandchild more enjoyable and stress-free for the grandparents and the parents.
Buy Less, Rent More
As we talk about all the great things to have at grandma and grandpa’s house, we also want to mention that you don’t need to buy all the gear. There may be some gear to buy and keep long-term as baby grows, but if family visits aren’t frequent, a great option is to rent the gear you need as you need it. Companies like BabyQuip offer high-quality baby gear as short-term rentals, providing a convenient service to grandparents.
Conclusion
Investing in or renting the right baby gear, from cribs and highchairs to baby monitors and diaper changing stations, will transform your home into a haven for your grandchild, making it a safe place to sleep and play. Equipping grandpa and grandma’s house with the essential baby gear ensures you are well-prepared and ready to tackle any situation, giving you peace of mind and making every visit a joyful experience.